Letter to the Editor

This letter is in response to the numerous articles covering the controversy surrounding the issue of stem cell research.

As someone who has been pro-life all their life, I believe life begins at the point of conception, and that those conceived under the laws of the United States are protected by the Constitution and therefore are entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Now has come the day where science has made it possible to freeze an embryo outside the body of a human female. The embryo’s natural development into a fully functioning human being is then blocked by being frozen until the time arrives when it will eventually be transferred back to a woman in order to have a baby. The natural progression begins again and results in the birth of a child no different than any other human being.

The controversy surrounding stem cell research concerns the idea of using “leftover” embryos as a means of repairing or replacing damaged tissues or organs of those who suffer daily. It has been said there is no greater sacrifice than to lay down one’s life for the life of another. As much as I am pro-life, I am also pro-quality-of-life, and see this as an opportunity for one life that may be discarded as “leftover” to serve to improve another’s life and hence allow that healed person to not only continue living, but live their lives to also help life to continue. I know that if I were to be discarded as “leftover” rather than be given the chance to help my fellow human being, then all would have been in vain. Many of us are called to perform extraordinary feats as we experience this existence called the human race. I can think of no greater feat than to go from being a “leftover” to someone who was able to lighten the burden of another person and perhaps extend their life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.

Joe Bialek, Sophomore drama major